2026
Mangistau Photo Tour
by Tynchtyk MR
Duration: 7 Days
Dates: 15 - 21 April 2026
PRICE:
-
Tynchtyk MukhambetovA professional drone pilot & photographer -
Discover the untamed beauty of Western Kazakhstan on this unforgettable journey through the surreal landscapes of the Mangystau Region — one of Central Asia’s most photogenic and geologically diverse areas. This 7-day adventure combines the coastal city of Aktau on the Caspian Sea andiconic natural landmarks such as Karynzharyk Depression, Bozjıra Canyon, Tuzbair Salt Flat, Sherkala Mountain, and the Torysh Valley of Balls. Lead by Tynchtyk MR and guided by experienced local guides, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of adventure and comfort.
Throughout the journey, meals are provided in a mix of local cafés and outdoor picnic settings, and 2 nights at the hotel and 4 nights at comfortable temp camps.
Photos and destinations of the tour
7 days, 15-21 April 2026
Guaranteed from 5 pax
Max size of the group 11 pax
Guaranteed from 5 pax
Max size of the group 11 pax
Program of the Akatau Photo tour
Arrive at Aktau International Airport and meet your local guide. After check-in at your hotel, enjoy a relaxing city tour of Aktau, a modern Caspian Sea port city set on dramatic coastal cliffs. Visit the seaside promenade, lighthouse viewpoint, and local market before having free time to stroll along the shore. This day helps you acclimatize before heading deep into the wild beauty of Mangystau.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aktau (standard 4★)
Driving Distance: Minimal (within city)
Accommodation: Hotel in Aktau (standard 4★)
Driving Distance: Minimal (within city)
Depart from Aktau around 10:00–10:30 (spring/summer) and drive into the heart of Mangystau’s otherworldly landscape. Travel across vast plateaus and steppe plains to reach the dramatic Karynzharyk Depression, one of the lowest points in Central Asia. Along the way, enjoy wide views over the Ustyurt Plateau and make several stops for photos. Lunch is a light picnic in the open steppe. Arrive at the viewpoint overlooking the famous “Five Brothers” rock outcrops before sunset.
Accommodation: Tent camping
Driving Distance: 370 km total (220 km asphalt + 150 km dirt/off-road)
Accommodation: Tent camping
Driving Distance: 370 km total (220 km asphalt + 150 km dirt/off-road)
Set off toward Bokty Mountain, one of the most photogenic formations in Mangystau. Continue to Kyzylkup, known as “Tiramisu Canyon” for its layered red-and-white slopes that resemble the dessert. En route, stop for photos. Arrive by sunset to Tiramisu and later camp at Bokty to catch the sunrise.
Accommodation: Tent Camp Bokty area
Driving Distance: 259 km total (168 km asphalt + 91 km dirt/off-road)
Accommodation: Tent Camp Bokty area
Driving Distance: 259 km total (168 km asphalt + 91 km dirt/off-road)
Sunrise at Bokty. Today explore the surreal landscape of Bozjıra, the symbol of Mangystau. The chalk cliffs, white canyons, and sharp rock “fangs” rise from the desert floor, offering incredible photo opportunities. Visit the lower and middle parts of the canyon, discovering natural arches and fossilized seabed layers. Lunch is served picnic-style surrounded by the endless silence of the desert.
Accommodation: Tent camping at Bozjıra site
Meals: Picnic lunch, dinner at camp
Driving Distance: 192 km total (157 km asphalt + 35 km dirt/off-road)
Accommodation: Tent camping at Bozjıra site
Meals: Picnic lunch, dinner at camp
Driving Distance: 192 km total (157 km asphalt + 35 km dirt/off-road)
Surise shooting and have breakfast, then continue to the upper viewpoints of Bozjıra for panoramic views of the white limestone cliffs and valleys. Later drive toward Tuzbair, an immense salt flat surrounded by steep escarpments. The dazzling white landscape reflects the sky and changes color at sunset, perfect for photography. Lunch is a light snack in nature. Spend the evening stargazing under an immense open sky.
Accommodation: Tent camp on Tuzbair Plateau
Driving Distance: 108 km total (24 km asphalt + 84 km dirt/off-road)
Accommodation: Tent camp on Tuzbair Plateau
Driving Distance: 108 km total (24 km asphalt + 84 km dirt/off-road)
Begin the return journey toward Aktau, with stops at several legendary Mangystau landmarks. Visit Airakty, often called the “Valley of Castles,” for its fortress-like cliffs; then admire the solitary mountain Sherkala, a cone-shaped mesa whose name means “Lion’s Fortress.” Later, explore Torysh, the Valley of Balls, where hundreds of giant spherical stones lie scattered across the desert. Continue to Aktau for your final night on the Caspian shore.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aktau (standard 4★)
Driving Distance: 334 km total (294 km asphalt + 40 km dirt/off-road)
Accommodation: Hotel in Aktau (standard 4★)
Driving Distance: 334 km total (294 km asphalt + 40 km dirt/off-road)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Aktau Airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Meals: Breakfast
WHAT IS INCLUDED:
- Accommodation as indicated
- Transport during the trip (2 pax - 1 jeep, 3-5 pax - 2 jeeps, 6-8 - 3 jeeps, 9-11 4 jeeps, 4WD jeep car)
- Entrance fees to sites listed
- Full-board Meal (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- English speaking drivers
- Tynchtyk MR's guiding and his salary.
- Eagle hunting, Felt carpet show
- Horseback riding in Chon Kemin, Altyn Arashan
- Ecological fee
- Hot springs
- Mineral water 1l. per pax per day
What is not included
- International Air ticket
- Transfer from/to airport (in case you will leave at the same day when the tour will finish we can organize you a transfer to the airport)
- Extra services in hotels
- Tips for the guides and drivers
- Health insurance
- Travel insurance